Gianni Infantino has suggested that players who cover their mouths while speaking to opponents could face dismissal if found to have made racist remarks, as football authorities intensify efforts to tackle discrimination in the game.
The proposal follows allegations that Gianluca Prestianni racially abused Vinicius Junior during a recent Champions League clash between Benfica and Real Madrid. Prestianni was seen covering his mouth with his shirt while speaking to the Real Madrid forward. He denies the allegation.
Speaking to Sky News after Saturday’s meeting of the International Football Association Board (IFAB), Infantino said such behaviour should raise suspicion.
“If a player covers his mouth and says something, and this has a racist consequence, then he has to be sent off, obviously,” he said. “There must be a presumption that he has said something he shouldn’t have said, otherwise he wouldn’t have had to cover his mouth.”
Infantino added that players with nothing to hide would have no reason to conceal their words, describing potential sanctions as necessary steps in football’s fight against racism.
The next FIFA Congress is scheduled for next month in Vancouver, where measures to restrict players from covering their mouths could be considered ahead of this year’s World Cup.
Infantino also suggested that disciplinary measures for racist abuse might vary depending on whether an offender issues a public apology, arguing that football should allow room for contrition while maintaining firm sanctions.
Prestianni has been provisionally suspended for the second leg of the Champions League tie pending the outcome of a UEFA investigation. If found guilty, he could face a 10-match ban.
